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AMB. SAMBEN NWOSU: THE LEADER ANAMBRA SOUTH NEEDS IN 2025

AMB. SAMBEN NWOSU: THE LEADER ANAMBRA SOUTH NEEDS IN 2025

 

As the 2025 elections approach, the people of Anambra South are looking for more than just a politician—they seek a leader who understands their struggles, listens to their concerns, and is ready to fight for their future. Among the contenders for the Senatorial seat, Amb. Samben Nwosu stands out as a leader with vision, integrity, and a deep sense of duty to his people.

For years, Amb. Nwosu has walked among his people, engaging with farmers, traders, business owners, and young professionals. He has listened to their worries about economic hardship, unemployment, poor infrastructure, and insecurity. Unlike many career politicians, he does not see leadership as a position of power but as a call to serve. He believes that representation in the Senate should not be about politics as usual—it should be about bringing real, lasting change.

In conversations with communities across Anambra South, Amb. Nwosu has emphasized the need for economic empowerment and job creation. He envisions a future where young people are no longer forced to leave their homeland in search of opportunities elsewhere but can build successful careers and businesses within the region. He is determined to attract investments, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and create an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive.

Education is another area close to his heart. He has often spoken about the need for better schools, vocational training programs, and policies that equip young people with the skills to compete in today’s world. He understands that for Anambra South to truly progress, the younger generation must be given the tools to succeed.

Security remains a major concern, and Amb. Nwosu has been vocal about the urgent need for stronger partnerships between the government and local communities to combat crime and ensure safety. He believes that a secure Anambra South is a prosperous Anambra South, where businesses can thrive and people can live without fear.

Beyond policies, what sets Amb. Nwosu apart is his genuine connection with the people. He does not speak in rehearsed political speeches; he speaks from the heart, sharing his vision with sincerity and passion. Those who have interacted with him describe him as approachable, understanding, and deeply committed to seeing his people succeed.

As the campaign for the Senate heats up, more and more people are rallying behind him, believing that he represents a new era of leadership—one that is focused on solutions, not empty promises. Amb. Nwosu himself remains focused, not on winning an election, but on building a better future for Anambra South.

“This is about the people,” he says. “It’s about ensuring that every man, woman, and child in Anambra South has the opportunity to thrive. I am ready to serve, and together, we will make history.”

As the countdown to the 2025 elections continues, one thing is clear: Amb. Samben Nwosu is not just a candidate—he is the leader Anambra South needs.

 

 

Written by

Anthony Emeka Nwosu

#Samben2025

 

Security remains a major concern, and Amb. Nwosu has been vocal about the urgent need for stronger partnerships between the government and local communities to combat crime and ensure safety. He believes that a secure Anambra South is a prosperous Anambra South, where businesses can thrive and people can live without

 

 

 

 

 

Foxit Revolutionizes PDF Management with AI-Driven Tools and Comprehensive Solutions

Foxit Revolutionizes PDF Management with AI-Driven Tools and Comprehensive Solutions

 

In a significant leap forward for business document management, Foxit has unveiled its latest suite of PDF tools designed to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity. The flagship product, **Foxit PDF Editor+**, is a cost-effective, AI-powered platform that redefines how businesses handle PDFs. With features like advanced editing, legally binding eSignatures, secure sharing, and seamless collaboration, Foxit PDF Editor+ is available across Windows, macOS, iOS, mobile, and cloud platforms, making it the ultimate choice for modern teams.

A Comprehensive PDF Solution for Businesses

Foxit PDF Editor+ offers a full-featured platform for viewing, creating, editing, organizing, and securing PDF documents. Its integrated OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology ensures scanned documents are fully text-searchable, while its compression capabilities reduce file sizes without compromising quality. Additionally, the platform supports advanced enterprise functionalities, integrations, and mass deployment, making it a compelling alternative to traditional PDF solutions.

Centralized Management with Foxit Admin Console

For organizations seeking centralized control, the **Foxit Admin Console** provides a cloud-based portal for managing Foxit products and services across entire teams. This tool simplifies administration, ensuring seamless deployment and oversight of Foxit’s solutions.

Advanced OCR and Document Compression

Foxit’s PDF Compressor and Maestro Server OCR leverage cutting-edge OCR technology to convert scanned documents into searchable PDFs, enabling businesses to handle high-volume document processing with unparalleled accuracy. Meanwhile, **Foxit PDF IFilter** accelerates document indexing, allowing users to quickly locate files using specific search criteria.

Flexible Licensing Options

Foxit offers both perpetual and subscription licensing models, catering to diverse business needs and budgets. This flexibility ensures organizations can choose the most cost-effective and scalable solution for their requirements.

### Streamlined eSignatures with Foxit eSign
Foxit’s **eSign** service is a game-changer for businesses looking to simplify document signing. With legally binding eSignatures, users can prepare, send, sign, and track agreements effortlessly. The service comes in two plans: **Foxit eSign Essentials** for basic eSigning and payment collection, and **Foxit eSign Business**, which includes advanced features like template sharing, custom branding, and user management. For businesses needing compliance, integrations, or advanced workflow management, additional modules can be added to the Business plan.

Seamless Integrations

Foxit eSign integrates seamlessly with popular platforms like Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, Zapier, Teams, and Dynamics, enabling businesses to automate workflows and streamline document processes. Notably, the integration with **Salesforce®** allows businesses to automate contract and agreement completion, reducing paperwork and focusing on sales.

Custom Solutions with Foxit eSign API

For businesses seeking tailored solutions, Foxit eSign’s powerful API enables seamless integration of eSigning into existing processes. This customization empowers organizations to take full control over document preparation and completion, enhancing efficiency and compliance.

Availability and Support

Foxit’s solutions are available globally, with **Kecam Technologies Limited** serving as the authorized distributor across Africa. For more information, presentations, or demos, businesses can contact Kecam Technologies at info@kecamtechnologies.com or call 08028227898 / 08023125996.

With its innovative tools, flexible licensing, and commitment to simplifying document management, Foxit is empowering businesses of all sizes to work smarter, faster, and more securely. Visit the Foxit website to explore how these solutions can transform your document workflows.

Opinion Report: Navigating Relationships with Ambitious Women

Opinion Report: Navigating Relationships with Ambitious Women

 

In today’s evolving societal landscape, the dynamics of relationships, particularly those involving highly educated and ambitious women, have become a topic of significant discussion. As someone who values education and ambition in a partner, I firmly believe that marrying a driven woman requires a man to either match her level of ambition or possess a strong sense of self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and a well-managed ego. Without these qualities, the relationship risks becoming a breeding ground for insecurity and resentment.

One of the most critical aspects of courtship, in my opinion, is open and honest discussions about career aspirations, goals, and future ambitions. These conversations are not just about understanding each other’s dreams but also about assessing compatibility. A woman who appears to be finding her footing during courtship might have grand plans for her future—she might aspire to be a “boss lady” or a trailblazer in her field. As a potential partner, you need to ask yourself: Can I handle her drive and all that comes with it? If the answer isn’t a resounding yes, it’s better to confront that reality early on.

From my observations, successful women often face significant challenges in their marriages, particularly when their achievements outshine their husbands’. Gaslighting is a common issue, where their natural reactions or actions are misinterpreted as arrogance or pride. For instance, expressing frustration or anger is often labeled as controlling behavior. This dynamic is vividly portrayed in *Smart Money Woman*, where the character of the lawyer married to Soj exemplifies the struggles ambitious women face in relationships. This fictional depiction resonates deeply with real-life scenarios I’ve witnessed, including within my own family. At one point, I even found myself praying not to outearn a future husband, fearing the strain it might place on the relationship. However, as I matured and reflected on the kind of partner I wanted, I realized that a man’s emotional maturity and self-confidence are far more important than his financial status.

Men who feel threatened by their wives’ success often tie their masculinity solely to their ability to provide financially. When their wives begin to earn more, they feel emasculated, not because of any fault of the woman but because they lack the emotional tools to handle a shift in traditional gender roles. This insecurity stems from a narrow definition of masculinity that excludes emotional support, household contributions, and other non-financial forms of value. A man who feels secure in himself, on the other hand, sees his wife’s success as a source of pride, not a threat.

That said, the responsibility doesn’t lie solely with men. Ambitious women must also cultivate humility, emotional intelligence, and respect in their relationships. While ambition is admirable, it should never manifest as pride or condescension toward a partner. A woman’s success should not invalidate her husband’s contributions, whether they are financial, emotional, or domestic. A man who supports his wife emotionally, takes care of the home, or plays an active role in parenting is just as valuable as one who earns a high income. True partnership is built on mutual respect, not a competition of achievements.

Moreover, ambition should not come at the expense of emotional intimacy. Just as women expect their partners to support their goals, they must also prioritize maintaining a strong emotional connection in their relationships. Success in a career should not equate to neglect in a marriage. Striking a balance between professional aspirations and personal relationships is crucial. Prioritizing work is important, but it should not mean sacrificing the health and happiness of a marriage.

For men considering a relationship with an ambitious woman, it’s essential to be honest about what you can handle. Ambitious women may need to outsource household chores, travel frequently, or maintain demanding schedules. If you’re not prepared to support her in these ways, it’s better to acknowledge that upfront rather than enter a relationship with unrealistic expectations. Marrying an ambitious woman means embracing her drive and supporting her goals, not trying to domesticate her or stifle her potential.

Ultimately, ambitious women don’t intimidate secure men—they inspire them. A confident man understands that his worth isn’t measured by who earns more but by the value he brings to the relationship beyond finances. He sees partnership as a source of mutual support, not competition. Before saying “I do” to a driven, go-getter woman, ask yourself: Do I admire her for who she is, or do I secretly wish to tame her? If it’s the latter, resentment is inevitable.

In conclusion, the real flex in a relationship is marrying someone whose growth excites you rather than threatens you. True partnership thrives when both individuals celebrate each other’s successes and contribute to each other’s happiness. Let everyone marry someone they can truly live with, and let ambition be a source of strength, not division, in relationships.

Written by Ifedayo Bode-Salisu

Broken Cyber Windows Theory (By Javvad Malik)

Broken Cyber Windows Theory (By Javvad Malik)

By Javvad Malik, Lead Security Awareness Advocate at KnowBe4 (www.KnowBe4.com).

 

Have you ever walked down a street with broken windows, burnt out cars, graffiti and felt a bit uneasy? There’s a reason for that, and it’s not just about aesthetics. The Broken Windows Theory, introduced by social scientists James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling in 1982, suggests that visible signs of crime and antisocial behavior encourage further crime and disorder. But what does this have to do with cybersecurity? More than you might think.

 

The Cybersecurity Parallel: Neglected Digital Environments

 

In many organizations, cybersecurity awareness feels like a losing battle. Employees ignore security policies, download unapproved software, and use weak passwords. It’s as if our digital environments are full of “broken windows,” signaling that it’s a culture where no one really cares about security.

 

Traditional approaches often focus on punitive measures or dry, technical training that fails to engage employees. It’s like trying to reduce crime by simply increasing fines, without addressing the underlying issues that make an area feel unsafe or neglected.

 

Applying the Broken Windows Theory to Cybersecurity

 

Just as fixing broken windows and cleaning up graffiti can reduce crime by fostering a sense of order and care, we can apply similar principles to our digital environments:

 

By applying the principles of the Broken Windows Theory to cybersecurity, we can create digital environments where security feels natural and everyone plays a part

  1. Create a Culture of Vigilance: Encourage employees to report potential security issues, no matter how small. This is like neighborhood watch programs for your network.
  2. Address Small Issues Quickly: Respond promptly to minor security infractions. This shows that security is taken seriously at all levels.
  3. Improve the “Look and Feel” of Security: Make security tools and processes user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing. A clean, well-designed security interface is like a well-maintained storefront.
  4. Celebrate Security Wins: Publicly recognise employees who spot phishing attempts or follow good security practices. This is akin to community awards for neighborhood improvement.

 

Practical Steps for Implementation

 

  1. Conduct a Digital Environment Audit

Walk through your organization’s digital spaces as an average user would. Where are the “broken windows”? Look for outdated software, clunky security processes, or confusing policies.

  1. Implement a “See Something, Say Something” Program

Create an easy way for employees to report potential security issues. Make it as simple as sending a quick message or clicking a button.

  1. Redesign Security Communications

Transform your security awareness materials. Replace dense text with infographics, short videos, or even memes. Make security information as engaging as a well-designed public space.

  1. Create Security Champions

Identify and empower individuals across departments to be security advocates. These champions can help maintain a secure “neighborhood” in their area of the organization.

  1. Regular “Digital Community” Events

Host regular cybersecurity events that feel more like community gatherings than lectures. Think cybersecurity fairs, hacking demos, or even escape rooms with a security twist.

 

The Path to a Strong Security Culture

 

By applying the principles of the Broken Windows Theory to cybersecurity, we can create digital environments where security feels natural and everyone plays a part. It’s not just about preventing breaches; it’s about fostering a community where secure behavior is the norm.

 

As we move forward, let’s reimagine our approach to cybersecurity awareness. Instead of building walls and enforcing rules, let’s create digital neighborhoods where everyone takes pride in keeping things secure.

 

Every fixed “window” in your digital environment is a step towards a more secure future. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and start cleaning up our digital streets. The neighborhood—and your data—will thank you.

Ecobank named Africa’s Best Bank for Trade Finance in Global Finance Awards

Ecobank named Africa’s Best Bank for Trade Finance in Global Finance Awards

Ecobank Group (www.Ecobank.com), the leading private pan-African financial services group with unrivalled African expertise, is proud to be named as the Best Trade Finance Provider Bank in Africa, at the Global Finance Trade Finance & Supply Chain Finance Awards 2025. Additionally, our affiliates in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire and Rwanda have also been recognised as the Best Trade Finance Provider in their respective markets.

 

Michael Larbie, Group Executive Corporate and Investment Banking, said, “We are focussed on delivering a wide range of trade finance solutions and excellent trade services to our clients, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area’s single market. This is exemplified by our innovative “Ecobank Single Market Trade Hub”, which digitally connects buyers and suppliers across the continent and a gateway to our comprehensive suite of trade finance products and services. At Ecobank, we are relentless in our efforts to be the bank of choice for Africans and their businesses and in our absolute commitment to delivering a Better Africa”.

 

At Ecobank, we are relentless in our efforts to be the bank of choice for Africans and their businesses and in our absolute commitment to delivering a Better Africa

Ecobank provides comprehensive trade solutions to its customers using various payment methods to facilitate cross-border and domestic trade throughout and beyond its network of 35 sub-Saharan African countries. It offers unique intra-Africa trade solutions, enabling its customers to settle their domestic and international trade transactions efficiently while mitigating payment risks. The bank works closely with clients in reviewing key aspects of transaction processing, including Settlement, Financing, Risk Mitigation, Credit Enhancement and applicable Exchange Control Regulations. Ecobank’s trade products and solutions are designed around three broad areas: structured trade and commodity finance; trade services; and supply chain finance.

 

The judges for the Global Finance awards selected Ecobank as the trade finance provider award winner based on input from industry analysts, corporate executives and technology experts, and on objective and subjective factors such as Ecobank’s trade-related transaction volume, the scope of its global coverage, customer service, competitive pricing, risk management and innovative products, services and technology.

 

Ecobank was presented with its trophies by Global Finance at the awards ceremony during the BAFT Europe Bank-To-Bank Forum in Amsterdam on 12 March 2025.

NDPC Inaugurates 10-Member SERVICOM Committee to Enhance Service Delivery

NDPC Inaugurates 10-Member SERVICOM Committee to Enhance Service Delivery

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has inaugurated a 10-member Service Compact (SERVICOM) committee to reinforce its commitment to efficient service delivery and data protection in Nigeria. The inauguration ceremony was attended by the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, alongside the National Coordinator of SERVICOM, Mrs. Nnenna Akajemeli.

During his address, Dr. Olatunji commended SERVICOM for its unwavering dedication to ensuring that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) provide effective and efficient services to Nigerians. He emphasized that the NDPC fully supports SERVICOM’s mandate, which led to the establishment of the committee within the Commission. This move aims to enhance the implementation of SERVICOM’s objectives within the NDPC while advancing data protection and privacy initiatives across the country.May be an image of one or more people and table

Mrs. Akajemeli, in her remarks, lauded the NDPC for its proactive approach to service excellence, particularly in safeguarding Nigerians’ data privacy. She described the Commission as “a listening organization” that has instituted necessary structures to guarantee quality and timely service delivery. She further encouraged the newly inaugurated SERVICOM Committee members to uphold the highest standards of service excellence and contribute towards continuous improvement within the Commission.

The NDPC remains steadfast in its mission to protect data privacy and ensure the highest standards of service delivery, aligning with SERVICOM’s vision of enhancing public service efficiency in Nigeria.

NDPC Unveils Nigeria Data Protection Act Implementation Directive

NDPC Unveils Nigeria Data Protection Act Implementation Directive

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has introduced the Nigeria Data Protection Act – General Application and Implementation Directive (NDP Act GAID) to enhance understanding and compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act). The directive serves as a guide for individuals and organizations covered under the Act, ensuring adherence to data protection principles and legal frameworks.

Speaking at the unveiling press conference, the National Commissioner/CEO of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, lauded the committee responsible for developing the directive. The committee, comprising stakeholders from various sectors, played a crucial role in shaping the document. Dr. Olatunji highlighted that the NDP Act GAID provides technical and organizational measures on key areas such as data protection principles, lawful basis for data processing, compliance audits, and data subject rights. Additionally, he noted that the directive incorporates guidelines for handling emerging technologies.

Dr. Olatunji emphasized that data subjects are not required to be physically present at the Commission to seek redress for privacy breaches. He explained that the NDPC has democratized the privacy breach remediation process through the introduction of the Data Subjects’ Standard Notice to Address Grievance (SNAG). This initiative allows data subjects to directly request remedial actions from data controllers and processors without first lodging a complaint with the Commission.

The introduction of the NDP Act GAID is expected to provide clarity on the NDP Act’s provisions, enabling data controllers and processors to fulfill their obligations while empowering data subjects with a clear understanding of their rights.

 

Port Harcourt Refinery Fully Operational Despite Minor Incident – NNPC Ltd

Port Harcourt Refinery Fully Operational Despite Minor Incident – NNPC Ltd

 The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has reaffirmed that the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) remains fully operational and continues to produce refined petroleum products, despite a minor incident that occurred at a section of the plant earlier today.

In an official statement, NNPC Ltd assured the public that the incident had no significant impact on the refinery’s overall operations, as all key sections of the facility, which recently underwent extensive rehabilitation, remain fully functional.

“The Port Harcourt Refinery continues to operate optimally, and there is no cause for concern regarding the production of refined petroleum products. Our technical teams swiftly addressed the minor incident, ensuring that operations remained uninterrupted,” the statement read.

The PHRC, which has been a crucial component of Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity, recently benefited from a comprehensive rehabilitation project aimed at enhancing efficiency and reliability. The refinery plays a strategic role in the country’s energy sector by reducing dependence on imported petroleum products and improving local supply.

NNPC Ltd reiterated its commitment to maintaining high safety standards and operational excellence in all its refining activities. The company assured that it remains dedicated to transparency and will continue providing updates on refinery operations to ensure the public stays well-informed.

As Nigeria continues to strengthen its refining capabilities, the full functionality of the PHRC underscores the government’s drive to achieve energy security and reduce import reliance.

For further updates, NNPC Ltd encourages stakeholders and the public to rely on official communications from the company.

Expert Calls for Inclusion of Supply Chain Management in Nigerian Colleges

Expert Calls for Inclusion of Supply Chain Management in Nigerian Colleges

Yetunde Adeoye, a leading Supply Chain Management (SCM) expert and Managing Partner at ADKO Investment Ltd, has called for the inclusion of SCM courses in Nigerian high schools and universities. Speaking at a conference with Nigerian educators, Adeoye emphasized the need for early-stage awareness and structured academic programs to address the knowledge gap and enhance career opportunities in the sector.

Adeoye, who has over 20 years of experience in global supply chain operations and is a member of the Association of Supply Chain Management (ASCM), United States, highlighted the crucial role of SCM in business operations, logistics, procurement, and distribution. She noted that despite its significance, SCM remains largely underrepresented in Nigerian institutions, leaving many graduates unprepared for careers in the field.

“The inclusion of Supply Chain Management as a standalone course in Nigerian colleges is crucial,” Adeoye stated. “Nigeria’s expanding industries, including agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and retail, require professionals who can optimize supply chains for efficiency and profitability. Without formal SCM education, many employees enter the field with no prior knowledge, forcing companies to spend significant resources on training, which affects productivity.”

Adeoye explained that SCM offers vast career prospects in industries such as e-commerce, procurement, and supply chain consultancy, helping to create more job opportunities for young graduates. She also emphasized that in today’s globalized economy, Nigeria needs skilled supply chain professionals to remain competitive in international trade.

“With the rise of digital supply chains and automation in logistics, we need an educated workforce that can adapt to technological advancements. Many Nigerian graduates lack specialized knowledge in supply chain logistics, procurement, and inventory management, leading to inefficiencies across various sectors. A well-trained supply chain workforce will enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness,” she added.

Adeoye further outlined the benefits of introducing SCM into Nigerian colleges, stating, “Graduates with SCM expertise can help businesses minimize costs, reduce waste, and improve service delivery. With the right knowledge, students can even establish logistics firms, supply chain consultancies, or procurement agencies, contributing to entrepreneurial growth.”

She urged the Nigerian government, private sector, and educational institutions to collaborate in integrating SCM into the national curriculum. “The Nigerian government and educational bodies should introduce SCM as a full-fledged course or integrate it into business and engineering programs. Colleges must also work closely with industry experts to develop practical, industry-relevant curricula,” she suggested.

Adeoye called for increased awareness among students, proposing career workshops, industry-led seminars, and mentorship programs. “We need to educate students on SCM career prospects through guest lectures, media campaigns, and collaborations with logistics and supply chain companies. This will ensure that more young people see SCM as a viable and rewarding career path,” she explained.

She also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving this initiative, stating, “We must partner with logistics companies, manufacturing firms, and e-commerce platforms to provide internships and hands-on training. Private-sector investment in SCM education through scholarships, research funding, and academic partnerships is also crucial.”

Concluding her remarks, Adeoye stressed the need for government support in making SCM education a national priority. “The Nigerian Ministry of Education should establish policies mandating SCM inclusion in higher education. Funding must also be allocated to equip colleges with the necessary resources, including modern logistics laboratories and simulation centers,” she said.

Adeoye reaffirmed that integrating SCM into Nigeria’s educational system is essential for economic development, employment generation, and global trade competitiveness. “A well-structured SCM education system will not only benefit students and enhance their career prospects but also strengthen Nigeria’s industrial and commercial sectors, positioning the country as a hub for efficient supply chain operations in Africa,” she concluded.

 

 

 

“Graduates with SCM expertise can help businesses minimize costs, reduce waste, and improve service delivery. With the right knowledge, students can even establish logistics firms, supply chain consultancies, or procurement agencies, contributing to entrepreneurial growth.”

 

Africa’s Filmmakers Accelerate Action for Gender Empowerment

Africa’s Filmmakers Accelerate Action for Gender Empowerment

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day this month, the film and television industry is revealing itself as a powerful arena of gender transformation, and a highly effected vehicle for empowering women. This especially the case in Africa, where women occupy several leadership roles in the industry.

 

These roles are pivotal, as they set the tone for the sector at large, influencing the content being created, as well as the attitudes of the young audiences exposed to the material being created by the continent’s next generation of young filmmakers.

This industry’s transformed leadership is well positioned to accelerate action even further and to continue building a creative industry where women feel free to express themselves and their views of the continent and its culture.

In the vanguard of this trend is the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) a pan-African network of training institutions training the next generation of African filmmakers. With training academies in Lusaka, Zambia, as well as Lagos, Nigeria and Nairobi, Kenya, the MTF provides fully paid, year-long courses in the fundamentals of film and TV production, with women well represented in every cohort.

Not only do women make up a high proportion of each year’s class, but they also win accolades in prominent film festivals as well as seeing their works premiering on major content platforms.

Most recently, Everything Light Touches – co-directed by woman MTF West Africa Academy graduate Elma Baisie – premiered on the Africa Magic Showcase channel. In East Africa, woman director Lynn Gitau – an MTV East Africa Academy graduate – partnered to create Somewhere in Kole, which premiered on the Maisha Magic Plus channel.

In every one of the MTF Africa territories, academy directors actively work to empower young woman filmmakers.

We believe in empowering women in the film industry through training, mentorship, and opportunities

“We promote women filmmakers in numbers and in terms of creative support,” says MTF Southern Africa Academy director Chris Puta. “Women students consistently make up around 50% of our cohort intake. But I believe what is most important is that they are given license to express themselves as writers, directors and producers. This is how women’s voices enter the mainstream.”

“We believe in empowering women in the film industry through training, mentorship, and opportunities,” says MTF West Africa Academy Director Atinuke Babatunde. “We give them all the skills they require to make a statement in the industry. And that is exactly what they are doing.”

Proof of this is the recognition MTF women alumni are earning on the film festival circuit. MTF West Africa graduate and producer-director Adeola Andrea Peregrino won first prize at the LEAP Africa USAID Film contest, and second prize at the IOM Film Contest for her film Poached, as well as being selected for the Africa International Film Festival, and as a finalist at the Edo State Festival.

“MTF is committed to seeing women pursue careers in film and TV,” says MTF Academy East Director Victoria Goro. “Besides upskilling young women filmmakers, we believe a highly effective way to encourage girls and young women to get into film is to inspire them by seeing great work by young women.”

Shining examples of this inspirational work are the achievements of East Africa MTF graduate Doreen Kilimbe’s film Midnight Bride, which won Best East African Film at the Uganda Film Festival, the Audience Award at Zambia’s Sotambe Film Festival, Best International Award at the Kalasha Film and TV Awards, and Best Actress at the Zanzibar International Film Festival.

Also making an impact was MTF Southern Africa Academy alumnus Tekla Nakale, won the best scriptwriting award for the film Ataman at the Multichoice Namibia Film Festival.

African women filmmakers are also taking charge of their own destiny in the industry by becoming involved in industry forums and even rising to leadership roles. In Namibia, MTF graduate Esther Beukes was recently appointed as Chairperson of the Board for the Namibia Film Commission.

In Botswana, former MTF student Serena Mmifinyane took time off from her work as a creative director at TV and film company N&M Productions to establish the Women in Film Guild Botswana, which is affiliated with Women in Film & TV International (WIFTI). In 2022, she was voted onto the WIFTI Board of Directors, and in 2023 became secretary of the global organisation.

“I am proud of what I have been able to achieve in the film sector,” said Mmfinyane. “But the hundreds of other young women who have come through MTF Academies have all made great strides in our industry. Their achievements exemplify the talent and drive of Africa’s women filmmakers, and how training can be a catalyst to accelerate gender empowerment across our continent.”